They also feature an exciting combination of those on the rise and those already at the top. As teams prepare for the upcoming season, several players are standing out based on their recent performances and potential impact on their respective teams. This story will break down the key players, where they stand, what teams they belong to and how they could shape the landscape of the upcoming season.
It hasn’t been one player, but a number of players have been creating headlines this season. Amen Thompson of the Houston Rockets, now wearing number 3, has quickly become one of the most talked about Small Forwards in years. Kelly Oubre Jr., now a free agent, is very much alive as a Small Forward of interest. Jimmy Butler III shown as player for the Golden State Warriors. As ever, he’s enjoyable to watch and powerful in an impact on the court.
Notable Small Forwards
The Small Forward position might be the most loaded position in the league. Amen Thompson’s next-level agility and finishing at the rim has him as a centerpiece in the Houston Rockets rebuilding plans. His performances in earlier seasons raised the bar for what’s expected of him in his development. He’ll be a player to keep a close eye on.
Miami Heat Jimmy Butler III quickly earns the respect of his peers as the veteran Small Forward of the Golden State Warriors. Not just known for his defensive prowess, alongside his scoring capability, Butler brings leadership to his team. His poise under high-pressure situations will be invaluable as the Warriors try to make a deeper playoff run this season.
Kelly Oubre Jr. is still the big question mark in the Small Forward position. Although he is currently without a team, his skills and past performances keep him relevant in discussions about impactful players. His all-around game would offer maximum impact to any team hoping to set themselves apart by rounding out their roster.
Centers Making Their Mark
We expect this Center position to be very competitive. This year, centers like Jarrett Allen of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Isaiah Hartenstein of the Oklahoma City Thunder are breaking out as important contributors. As the new Cavaliers centerpiece, Jarrett Allen is now the new starting center. He has quickly established himself as a defensive anchor. His elite shot-blocking ability and rebounding provide incredible paint protection and consistency.
Isaiah Hartenstein of the Oklahoma City Thunder shoots in jersey number 25. On offense, Johnson has proven himself as a dynamic playmaker but as an efficient positional player. He can stretch that floor with his shooting. Offensively, he plays solid defense at and around the rim, making him a home run pick in today’s game.
Selecting Brook Lopez from the Los Angeles Clippers adds great depth and experience to the Center position. Things get even scarier for defenses when you consider his shooting range. Sporting number 16, Lopez’s impactful three-point shooting on offense opens up an entirely different defensive gameplan against the Clippers.
Versatile Wing Players and Guards
Players such as Keegan Murray and DeMar DeRozan have displayed incredible versatility. This has changed the narrative of what we want from our Power Forwards and Small Forwards. Keegan Murray, representing the Sacramento Kings with jersey number 14, has shown promise with his scoring touch and ability to defend multiple positions. His growth will be key, as the Kings hope to make a real playoff run.
DeMar DeRozan, from the Kings, in number 15, is still one of the most efficient scorers and playmakers in the league. Given any space at all, DeRozan is going to be fire in the mid-range. He’s an impressive shot creator for himself and others, making him an important piece to Sacramento’s offensive engine.
Guards such as San Antonio Spurs rookie Devin Vassell are breaking through. Tre Johnson of the Washington Wizards is joining that illustrious list. With Vassell, in 15, we know he can shoot and got that defensive pass-it-tenacity. On the other side, Tre Johnson, who now wears number 24, has brought a youthful spark and explosive scoring ability to Washington.
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